Gili Islands
Southeast Asia · Indonesia
Did you know?
- Off Meno, a circle of human statues forms an underwater sculpture called Nest.
- Meno has an inland saltwater lake separated from the surrounding sea.
- Cars and motorbikes are absent from the islands.
See also
Overview
The Gili Islands combine beach cafés with snorkelling and diving. Their largely motor-free atmosphere and turtle sites are central to the visitor experience.
Languages: Indonesian
Why go?
The Gili Islands are very relaxed and laid-back, with countless little beachside cafes playing reggae and serving up questionable 'energy' drinks. Best of all, there are no cars or motorbikes to disturb the peace.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Climate
The Gilis are noticeably drier and hotter than Lombok, but evenings can be relatively cooler. The rainy season is roughly November to April, but it rains much less than on Bali. Peak tourist seasons are July–August and December–January.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Get around
There is no motorised transport on the islands. Options are horse-drawn carts (cidomos) and bicycles. Cidomo prices for tourists are Rp 20,000-50,000 per head, and going all the way around the islands could cost up to Rp 150,000. The islands are only a few km in diameter, so walking is also possible. Travelling between islands requires island-hopping boats or charter vessels. Do not attempt to swim the currents.
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See
The main attractions are snorkelling and diving. Notable sights include the Gili Meno Bird Park with exotic species, a turtle sanctuary on Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno, and a sunset viewpoint on the hill on Gili Trawangan with panoramic views.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Drink
Gili Trawangan had a huge reputation as a backpacker party island, and nightlife now includes bars with live music and DJs as well as quieter beachfront places. Do not leave drinks unattended due to spiking incidents. Stick to western-owned bars to reduce risk from locally distilled spirits.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Sleep
Demand often outstrips supply, so prices are higher than on Bali or Lombok. During peak seasons (Jul-Aug, Dec-Jan), advance reservations are advisable. Basic fan rooms start at Rp 100,000, air-conditioned rooms are Rp 300,000-400,000. Gili Trawangan also offers high-end luxury villas. Always negotiate and confirm whether tax and breakfast are included.
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Respect
Many locals are Muslim. Never sunbathe nude or topless; cover up away from the beach. Avoid excessive public displays of affection. During Ramadan, be sensitive and refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Stay safe
Lock doors at night and don't leave valuables out. Be very careful with locally produced alcohol (arak) as it can contain methanol. Do not leave drinks unattended due to risk of spiking. Magic mushrooms are widely available but can cause distress. Drug penalties in Indonesia are extremely harsh, including the death penalty. Jellyfish are common; bluebottle stings require immediate treatment.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Stay healthy
All three islands have a small clinic. For serious problems, go to Lombok or Bali. The nearest hospital is in Mataram. Tap water is salty and not potable; bottled water is available and refills cost Rp 3,000. There is no malaria on the Gilis, but dengue has been reported. Use mosquito repellent and nets.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Cope
Electricity is from generators, so power outages are common. Many upmarket places have backup generators. Water supply may also be affected. Laundry can be arranged through guesthouses, but hand-washing is advisable.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Go next
Destinations include Bali, Lombok (west coast, Mount Rinjani, Senggigi, Mataram, Kuta), Sumbawa, and Nusa Lembongan (a stop for some boat services between Bali and the Gilis).
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0
Field guide adapted from Wikivoyage contributors · CC BY-SA 4.0. Text has been adapted and organized for this guide. About our sources.
Places to know
A few starting points from the guide. Check current hours and prices before you go.
- see
Gili Meno Bird Park
A bird sanctuary in the centre of Gili Meno boasting exotic species in a beautifully landscaped environment. Macaws, flamingos, cockatoos, pelicans, eagles, parrots and more. Also home to a crocodile, some deer and a kangaroo.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Sunset on the hill
Great sunset spot with panoramic views of the 3 Gilis and of Lombok and Bali beyond. A good place to take photographs.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
- see
Turtle sanctuary
Green and loggerhead turtles are now common to the waters around the Gilis. To ensure the on-going survival of these creatures, sanctuaries have been set-up on both Gili Trawangan and Gili Meno. You can visit the sanctuaries, see the baby turtles in their pools and learn more about these fascinating creatures.
Adapted from Wikivoyage contributors
Before you go
Etiquette
Respect local Muslim customs: cover up away from beach, avoid public displays of affection.
Health
Small clinics on each island; nearest hospital in Mataram, Lombok.
Money
ATMs available on Gili Trawangan; credit cards accepted with 3% surcharge; cash advances with 7-10% fee.
Safety
Be cautious with local alcohol and never leave drinks unattended. Drug penalties are severe.
Transport
No motorised vehicles on the islands; transport by horse-drawn cart or bicycle.
Water
Tap water is salty and not potable; bottled water and refills (Rp 3,000) available.
Weather
Dry season peak Jul-Aug and Dec-Jan; rainy season Nov-Apr but less rain than Bali.